The largest wave pool in Europe
Only 9 miles separate the vibrant city of Edinburgh from Ratho, a small village situated on a ridge in the Almond River plain. Surrounded by lush greenery and in a place where you can only hear the birds singing and the silence (yes, the silence), Ratho offers monuments and points of interest that travelers cannot miss. Among them, the most notable is the largest and most advanced wave pool in Europe. An oasis for surfing enthusiasts and undoubtedly the perfect plan for Easter.
Before discovering the £60 million resort that has put Ratho on the world surfing map, let's take a walk around the village. There, we discover its cemetery, with the graves of those fallen in war. Travelers should also visit the church, known as Ratho Parish Church, or visit the memorial inscribed with the names of those who lost their lives in battle.
A unique wave pool in the world: More than 20 types of different waves
However, what has made Ratho an unmissable destination is Lost Shore Surf Resort, a complex that features the largest wave pool in Europe, allowing these intrepid travelers to enjoy incredible waves without having to face the fierce North Sea.
Lost Shore Surf Resort is the dream come true for Andy Hadden. A dream that began in the Basque Country when he met a group of engineers working with cutting-edge technology to provide access to this exciting sport that allows you to ride the waves.
And Andy, coming from Scotland (home to some of the best waves, landscapes, tourist attractions, and a wonderful growing surfing community), dreamed of creating a paradise for surfers of all levels; a resort that families and friends could enjoy, whether surfing or not, and a place to unwind. A place that embodies the Scottish spirit where everyone is welcome.
Thus, this resort was born, offering luxury lodging and all kinds of amenities: a beachfront bar, café, restaurant, surf school and shop, a spa with wellness treatments, and the Surfskate Academy: facilities in a unique location for your next Easter vacation.
At Lost Shore Surf Resort, they have prepared surf packages allowing travelers to save money on both drop-in sessions for those with some experience and lessons. For adults, for example, a 5-session pass costs 295 euros, while for children, it's 241 €. However, these packages are available in limited quantities and must be used within 12 months of purchase.
Hiking and climbing in Ratho
Beyond surfing, Ratho is an excellent destination for enjoying nature; in fact, from the heart of the village, numerous hiking trails lead travelers to dreamlike landscapes. You can start, for example, by walking along the Union Canal, which runs through the village. Along the banks of the Almond, you'll find various restaurants on barges where you can try everything from fish and chips to other local delights.
And if the weather doesn't cooperate, as it is well-known that it rains often in Scotland, travelers can also head to EICA, the largest indoor climbing wall in Europe. Yes, in Ratho, everything is done on a grand scale. And, as proof, this climbing space features numerous routes for all skill levels, allowing the more adventurous travelers to enjoy an indoor climbing plan.
In summary, Edinburgh is a perfect destination for Easter. There, you can discover some of its must-see corners or stay in the suite where J. K. Rowling finished writing 'Harry Potter'. And, to make your vacation complete, in less than half an hour's drive, you'll reach Ratho, an Eden for surfers from around the world, thanks to the largest wave pool in Europe.